Tortillas are a staple in many kitchens but finding a simple vegan version that’s both delicious and easy to make can be a game-changer. Our easy vegan tortilla recipe uses just a few basic ingredients and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
We love how these tortillas are soft, flexible, and perfect for wraps, tacos, or even homemade chips. Plus, making them at home means you control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and additives often found in store-bought options. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to try something new, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To make our Easy Vegan Tortilla Recipe, we use simple pantry staples that keep the tortillas soft, flexible, and free from any animal products or preservatives.
Here is the list of ingredients with their precise measurements:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (240g) | Sifted |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Vegetable oil | 3 tablespoons | Any neutral oil works best |
| Warm water | 3/4 cup (180ml) | Adjust as needed |
Key notes on ingredients:
- We choose all-purpose flour for its perfect balance of protein and softness, which creates pliable tortillas.
- The small amount of baking powder helps achieve a slight puffiness without compromising texture.
- Vegetable oil adds moisture and subtle richness—feel free to substitute with avocado or olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- Using warm water helps the dough come together smoothly and makes kneading easier.
By controlling these ingredients ourselves, we ensure our vegan tortillas are fresh, wholesome, and free from any unwanted additives common in store-bought options.
Equipment Needed
To make our Easy Vegan Tortilla recipe, having the right equipment simplifies the process and ensures consistent results. Here is what we recommend:
- Mixing Bowl: Use a medium to large bowl to combine the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of flour, baking powder, salt, oil, and water are crucial for soft and flexible tortillas.
- Whisk: Handy for mixing the dry ingredients evenly before adding liquids.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For initial dough mixing before kneading.
- Clean Surface or Pastry Mat: Provides a smooth, non-stick area ideal for kneading and rolling out the dough.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling the dough into thin, even circles.
- Non-stick Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: Helps cook tortillas evenly with a perfect light brown char.
- Kitchen Towel or Clean Cloth: For covering the dough while resting and keeping cooked tortillas warm and soft.
- Optional: Dough Scraper: Useful to handle sticky dough and clean surfaces.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measurement |
| Whisk | Mix dry ingredients evenly |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Initial dough mixing |
| Pastry Mat/Clean Surface | Kneading and rolling |
| Rolling Pin | Roll dough thin and even |
| Non-stick Skillet/Pan | Cook tortillas properly |
| Kitchen Towel | Cover dough and keep tortillas warm |
| Dough Scraper (Optional) | Handle sticky dough and clean surfaces |
Having these tools ready helps us maintain efficiency and achieve the soft texture and pliability that make these vegan tortillas so versatile. Remember precise measuring and even rolling play a key role in the final product’s quality.
Prep Work
Before we begin crafting our easy vegan tortillas let’s prepare our ingredients and dough with precision for the best results. Proper prep work sets the foundation for soft flexible vegan tortillas every time.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements ensure consistent texture and flavor in our vegan tortilla recipe. Use standard measuring cups and spoons to achieve balance between dry and wet ingredients.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Provides structure and softness |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Adds slight puffiness |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp | Moisture and richness (can substitute) |
| Warm water | ¾ cup | Facilitates smooth pliable dough |
Tip: Use warm water (about 110°F) to activate the baking powder and soften the dough for easier kneading.
Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until evenly distributed.
- Add vegetable oil and gently mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until the flour absorbs the oil evenly.
- Slowly pour in the warm water while stirring continuously to bring the dough together.
- Transfer the dough onto a clean surface or pastry mat dusted lightly with flour.
- Knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Form the dough into a ball. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting step allows the gluten to relax creating soft flexible tortillas.
Remember: Proper kneading and resting are crucial to achieve the perfect texture we want in our homemade vegan tortillas.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare our easy vegan tortillas with a soft, flexible texture perfect for wraps, tacos, and more.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the vegetable oil followed by the warm water gradually.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix the ingredients until they start coming together into a shaggy dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead it by hand for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little flour on the surface to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much to keep the tortillas soft.
“Kneading develops gluten which is essential for the pliability and softness of our vegan tortillas.”
Resting the Dough
After kneading, place the dough back into the bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.
| Resting Time | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 20 minutes | Allows gluten to relax for softness |
This resting period is key to making the dough easier to roll out and results in tortillas that are tender yet flexible.
Rolling Out the Tortillas
- Divide the rested dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
- Lightly dust your clean surface and rolling pin with flour.
- Roll each ball into a thin circle about 6 to 8 inches in diameter.
- Keep the rolled tortillas covered with a kitchen towel while working on the rest to prevent drying out.
Cooking the Tortillas
- Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until hot.
- Place one rolled tortilla on the skillet, cooking it for about 30 to 45 seconds or until bubbles start to form.
- Flip the tortilla and cook the other side for another 30 to 45 seconds until light golden spots appear.
- Both sides should have slight puffiness signaling perfect cooking.
- Remove the cooked tortilla and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm and soft.
- Repeat the process with remaining tortillas.
Remember, quick cooking at medium-high heat ensures tortillas stay soft and pliable instead of becoming dry or crispy.
Tips for Perfect Tortillas
To master the art of making easy vegan tortillas, we need to focus on a few key details that ensure softness, flexibility, and delicious flavor every time. Here are our expert tips for perfecting your homemade tortillas:
1. Measure Ingredients Precisely
Use exact measurements for flour, baking powder, salt, oil, and water. Too much flour will make the tortillas dry and tough. Too much water results in sticky dough that’s hard to handle. Use a digital scale if possible for accuracy.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Role |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (240g) | Structure and softness |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Light puffiness |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp | Moisture and richness |
| Warm water | 3/4 cup (180ml) | Dough hydration and pliability |
2. Knead Thoroughly, Then Let Rest
Kneading develops gluten giving the dough elasticity. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. After kneading, resting the dough for at least 20 minutes covered with a kitchen towel relaxes gluten and improves softness.
“Resting is the secret step that makes the dough easy to roll and the tortillas soft and pliable.”
3. Divide and Roll Evenly
Divide dough into equal portions (8 pieces) to ensure uniform cooking. Roll out each ball on a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin. Aim for thin tortilla circles about 6-8 inches in diameter. Ensure even thickness to avoid uneven cooking.
4. Cook on a Hot Skillet Quickly
Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet on medium-high. Place the tortilla and cook 30 to 45 seconds per side until light golden spots appear. Avoid overcooking to keep them soft. Press lightly on bubbles with a spatula to encourage puffing which indicates well-cooked tortillas.
5. Keep Tortillas Warm and Moist
Stack cooked tortillas on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to retain warmth and moisture. This prevents drying and helps maintain pliability for wrapping.
Quick Reference Table for Cooking Time and Temperature
| Step | Temperature | Time per Side | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | Medium-high | N/A | Hot enough to toast quickly |
| First side cook | Medium-high | 30 to 45 seconds | Look for light golden spots |
| Flip and cook | Medium-high | 30 to 45 seconds | Light puffiness indicates done |
By following these expert tips we ensure every batch of our easy vegan tortillas turns out perfectly soft, flexible, and delicious—ready to enhance any taco, wrap, or burrito we create.
Serving Suggestions
Our easy vegan tortilla recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Here are some flavorful ways to enjoy your homemade tortillas:
1. Classic Vegan Tacos
Fill your warm tortillas with seasoned spiced black beans, fresh avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness and enjoy a vibrant taco experience.
2. Hearty Wraps
Use the tortillas as a vessel for crisp lettuce, grilled vegetables, hummus, and your favorite vegan protein like tofu or tempeh. Roll tightly and cut in half to present an easy-to-eat wrap for lunch or a light dinner.
3. Vegan Burrito Bowls
Cut the tortillas into small pieces, toast them until crispy, and use as crunchy toppings for your burrito bowls. This adds a delightful texture contrast to ingredients like quinoa, roasted peppers, corn, and guacamole.
4. Soft Quesadillas
Spread vegan cheese or cashew cream on one tortilla, place another on top, and cook gently in a skillet until golden and melty. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa and plant-based sour cream.
Table: Perfect Pairings for Our Vegan Tortillas
| Serving Style | Suggested Fillings/Toppings | Complementary Sauces |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Tacos | Black beans, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro | Lime juice, hot sauce |
| Wraps | Grilled veggies, tofu, hummus, lettuce | Tahini dressing, vegan mayo |
| Burrito Bowls Topping | Toasted tortilla pieces, quinoa, roasted corn | Guacamole, salsa verde |
| Quesadillas | Vegan cheese, cashew cream | Salsa, plant-based sour cream |
Tips for Serving
- Keep tortillas warm and pliable by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel until ready to serve.
- To maintain softness, lightly brush cooked tortillas with a small amount of olive oil or vegan butter before wrapping.
- Experiment with spices and fillings to suit seasonal produce or dietary preferences for endless customization.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and make-ahead preparations are essential to keep our easy vegan tortillas fresh, soft, and ready to use anytime. Here are the best practices to store and prepare these tortillas in advance while maintaining their texture and flavor.
Storing Cooked Vegan Tortillas
- Cool completely on a wire rack before storage to prevent condensation that leads to sogginess.
- Stack the tortillas with a piece of parchment or wax paper between each to avoid sticking.
- Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage place in the refrigerator where they last for up to 1 week.
Freezing Vegan Tortillas
To extend shelf life more than refrigeration allows, freezing is ideal.
- Wrap stacks of 6-8 tortillas tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped stacks in a zip-top freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 1 hour.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Cool completely, separate with paper |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Airtight container or zip-top bag |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly, thaw in fridge or room temp |
Reheating Tips for Soft and Pliable Tortillas
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 20-30 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
- Alternatively, cover tortillas with a damp paper towel and microwave in 20-second intervals.
- Wrap warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture until serving.
Make-Ahead Dough Preparation
We can prepare the dough a day ahead to save time without compromising quality.
- Complete the dough preparation and kneading as usual.
- Lightly coat the dough ball with vegetable oil to prevent drying.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Remove from fridge and allow the dough to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before dividing and rolling.
Conclusion
Making our own vegan tortillas is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh and flexible wraps without any unwanted additives. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of practice, we can create soft, delicious tortillas perfect for any meal.
By mastering this easy recipe, we open up endless possibilities for tasty vegan dishes that everyone will love. Whether for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these homemade tortillas bring both flavor and satisfaction to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make vegan tortillas?
You need all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, vegetable oil, and warm water. These simple ingredients create soft, flexible tortillas without preservatives or additives.
Why make homemade vegan tortillas instead of buying store-bought?
Homemade tortillas are fresher, free from preservatives and additives, and you control the ingredients. They’re softer and more flexible, perfect for various dishes like tacos, wraps, and quesadillas.
What equipment do I need to make tortillas at home?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, wooden spoon or spatula, a clean surface or pastry mat, rolling pin, and a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan.
How long should I knead the tortilla dough?
Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the texture and softness of the tortillas.
How long do the tortillas need to rest before cooking?
Let the dough rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period relaxes the gluten, ensuring soft and pliable tortillas.
How should I cook the tortillas?
Cook each tortilla on a hot skillet for 30 to 45 seconds per side until lightly golden and slightly puffed, keeping them soft and flexible.
Can I substitute vegetable oil with another ingredient?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil, but keep the quantity the same to maintain moisture and texture.
How do I keep tortillas warm and soft after cooking?
Cover cooked tortillas with a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture and warmth, which keeps them soft and pliable for serving.
What are some serving ideas for vegan tortillas?
Try vegan tacos with spiced black beans and avocado, wraps with grilled veggies and hummus, burrito bowls with crispy tortilla toppings, or quesadillas with vegan cheese.
How should I store leftover tortillas?
Cool completely, then stack with parchment paper and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze wrapped tightly for longer storage.
How do I reheat tortillas without drying them out?
Reheat briefly in a hot skillet or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds to maintain softness and pliability.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, or freeze for longer. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.